Lucas Girls learn from crafter

EACH month, the Lucas Past Employees Association gets together at the Redan Football Club hall, and occasionally they welcome a guest speaker.

The latest visitor was commemorative rug-maker Fay Frawley, who was invited to speak about her unique craft.

“I create rugs which have panels with war pictures on them, which are lined with batting, and have a red poppy material on the back,” she said.

“It was a great opportunity for people to see the knee rugs, which can also be wall-hangings, and show them what I do.

“I sell the rugs, but have also donated them to World War Two, Vietnam and Light Horse Brigade veterans.”

The Lucas Past Employees Association has existed for over 75 years, and the 12 remaining members continue to be affectionately known as the Lucas Girls.

President Lynette Singleton said they enjoy meeting on the first Thursday of each month at 2pm.

“Twice a year, in May and October, we have fashion parades to raise money for the Arch of Victory and Avenue of Honour,” she said.

“We give the committee over $1000 a year, and we are only a small group of paying members, but we do work hard.

“Joan Benton and myself are Lucas representatives on the Arch of Victory – Avenue of Honour committee, and I have been for 35 years.”

The Lucas Girls were the original fundraisers during the building of the Arch of Victory, and members continue to have a keen interest in World War One history.